September 27, 2013

Casper Wells Returns To The Phillies

Remember our favorite .128-hitting reliever? He's back! Phillies outfielder/pitcher Casper Wells has been reinstated from the disabled list, Todd Zolecki reports. Well has not appeared in a game for the Phillies since Sunday, August 25, Roy Halladay's return to the mound after surgery. The night before was the night that Wells famously (or infamously) surrendered five earned runs to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 18th inning.

Wells remains one big unknown. Wells has long been regarded as having incredible talent, but he has been passed around over five different organizations this season. Teams frequently saw talent and a great opportunity, but then just as frequently let him go whenever a roster crunch required the weakest link to go. Wells has been battling complications relating to laser eye surgery that has complicated his vision.

Could Wells with improved eyesight begin to hit? It is possible. But the Phillies will have to find out soon. They could, in theory, retain Wells through Spring Training to find out. But being out of options, Wells could be on to another team if the Phillies try to send him to the minor leagues. The biggest issue with that is that they will have to keep Wells on the 40-man roster all offseason, while they try to add other players.

I think it is worth it to the Phillies to see if Wells can live up to the potential so many believe that he has. The offseason will determine whether or not they can keep him on the roster.